MTHFR Testing in Jenks, OK

The MTHFR gene, known medically as methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, is responsible for producing a key enzyme that serves many functions in your body. This MTHFR gene can become defective or mutated, which may have damaging impacts on your health.

What Does the MTHFR Gene Do?

The MTHFR gene produces the MTHFR enzyme. This enzyme informs how your body processes amino acids, which are necessary for your body to break down and utilize proteins and folate vitamins.

The lack of a functioning MTHFR gene can lead to a higher-than-normal risk for:

Low levels of vitamin B

Hypothyroidism

Heart disease

Fibromyalgia

Depression

Spina bifida

High blood pressure

Glaucoma

Pregnancy complications

These are just a small selection of conditions associated with the MTHFR gene and enzyme. When the MTHFR gene is defective, it is a condition known as MTHFR mutation, MTHFR polymorphism or MTHFR genetic defect.

How Does MTHFR Testing Work?

MTHFR mutations are typically detectable with the process known as MTHFR testing. This process is part of the larger treatment known as genetic testing. Genetic and MTHFR tests are typically done with a saliva analysis.

The most accurate tests are typically performed by a medical professional and involve the comprehensive analysis of many important genes. The MTHFR test itself is entirely painless and takes just a few minutes. The turn-around time for results is typically a few days. There are home versions of genetic tests, but they are prone to errors and sometimes difficult to self-administer. In-office genetic testing reduces the risk for errors and ensures the process will be completed correctly.

MTHFR Defect Treatment

Defective genes cannot be directly treated or changed themselves. As genes are an integral part of your DNA, treatment for MTHFR defects are typically supplementary. These treatments seek to counter-act the negative effects of a defective MTHFR gene by providing calculated doses of amino acids, which are under produced with a defective MTHFR gene.

Some preventive steps and lifestyle changes can also help those suffering from MTHFR polymorphism cope, including a healthy diet and exercise.